MNDF steps up patrols against pirate threat

Maldives National Defense Force has increase its patrols in the western waters of the Maldives because of the number of dinghies from Africa being sighted, reports Miadhu.

Lieutenant Ahmed Mujuthaba told Miadhu that the patrols were being conducted with the assistance of neighbouring countries.

Suspicious dinghies have been spotted in the north, central and southern areas of the Maldives during the past six months, he revealed to Miadhu, although he added that they were more likely to have strayed rather than be engaging in piracy.

Several weeks ago a Somali man narrowly escaped being buried after a dinghy containing him and five other men was recovered near Makunudhoo in Haadhaalu Atoll.